Youngster Tom Richards divides the judges in tonight’s show following his audition in Cardiff. The 16-year-old from Pontypridd in South Wales auditioned in Wales in front of the judges and guest judge Pixie Lott, however struggled to win some of the panel over, with Pixie unconvinced.

Tom originally auditions with The Script’s ‘Man Who Can’t Be Moved’, but the judges aren’t sure. Cheryl says: “When you sing a song like that it’s about the emotion and the lyrics should make you move a bit when you feel it but that was a little bit contrived at times. Apart from putting on the little act, vocally I thought you were the best in this category we’ve had today. “

Louis adds: “I liked the voice but I don’t know what all the silly stage antics were – running here and running there. But, I loved your voice.”

Meanwhile Simon Cowell explained to Tom: “The market has moved on drastically for a singer like you and your age. That was what I would call a boyband performance from five or six years ago. I think it’s crucial that you know the gap in the market and what you’re trying to do.”

The judges agree to give Tom a second chance, asking to him to sing a more ‘current’ song. Following his second performance of musical number ‘This Is The Moment’ however, Simon exclaims: “Hang on a minute. Did you listen to what I just said to you? What did I just say to you? I’m now relying on you to tell me what people of your age want to buy from you.

“I don’t think you could have chosen a worse song. You’re not what I’d be looking for as a popstar, so it’s a no.”

Cheryl says: “You’re trying to show us what you can do vocally and stuff but what we’re looking for is someone who comes in and says, look this is who I want to be this is where I want to go and you sang two completely different songs. Despite all that, I’m going to say yes”

Louis was happy with the second performance, telling Tom: “Well I’m saying yes.”

However Pixie gives the youngster a no, but with pressure from both Louis and the audience, will the guest judge change her mind?

The X Factor continues tonight on ITV1 and ITV1 HD from 7:45PM.